Here’s how to spot dividend ETFs worth investing in

Article Excerpt

When investing in dividend-paying companies through an ETF, here are key factors to consider: Dividend yield: Dividend yield is the dividend paid during the previous 12-month period divided by the current unit price of the ETF. But, this yield can change quickly if the ETF lowers its dividend—which happens more frequently if it invests in cyclical companies. Dividend consistency and growth: Most ETFs that invest in dividend-paying companies pass the dividends received from the underlying companies on to investors (after deducting fees). So, the stability and growth of the dividend depends on the consistency of the dividends received from the underlying companies. Dividend quality: ETFs that aim to offer the highest possible yield often invest in lower-quality, high-yielding stocks This comes with the considerable risk that these companies may cut or suspend a dividend. Diversification: ETFs investing in dividend-paying stocks should be sure to diversify—which implies spreading holdings out across the main sectors, and with reasonable weights in individual companies. Total return: The price performance of the underlying stock is…